Extreme cold alert continues

It is expected to last several days with temperatures expected to rise slightly on Friday and Saturday and then fall below -15C on the days that follow.

Alerts are issued when temperatures are expected to fall below -15C (without a windchill), or when weather conditions are severe enough to warrant alerting the community to the risks involved with prolonged exposure.

The alert is intended to inform the general public and community agencies and recommend precautions. They remain in effect until temperatures rise above –15C or weather conditions improve and the risks involved with prolonged exposure are reduced.

This winter has been especially harsh with the Region issuing 10 cold alerts — that affected a total 29 days so far this year — compared to three cold alerts spanning just six days in 2013.

Cold weather sticking around

With no shortage of cold and snow in the forecast, weather predictions hold no promise of warmer temperatures as we move into March.

Environment Canada forecasted a low of -25C for Oakville last night with a high of -11C today (Friday), followed by -2C and -5C highs this weekend. Still, overnight lows are expected to be -19C overnight Saturday and about the same overnight Monday.

Anyone can be affected by extreme cold-related conditions, depending on length of time and exertion levels.

Those especially at risk include: older adults (over the age of 65), infants and young children, outdoor workers, sport enthusiasts (such as hikers, skiers, etc.), the homeless, and those lacking shelter, proper clothing or food.

During these cold alerts, residents are advised to: cover exposed skin; wear a hat, gloves or mittens, and a scarf to protect the chin, lips, and cheeks; prepare a winter-survival kit for their home and vehicle; be on the lookout for signs of frostbite and hypothermia; and plan ahead by checking the weather forecast.

Additional information, weather forecasts and wind-chill information can also be obtained from the Environment Canada website, http://environmentcanada.com. For information on extreme cold, contact Halton Region by dialing 311 or visit www.halton.ca.